The Ocean Breeze cocktail is a refreshing, fruity drink that’s perfect for warm days or when you just want a little taste of summer. With a bright mix of cranberry, grapefruit, and a splash of lime, it’s light, crisp, and easy to make. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress—whether I’m sipping it on my patio or serving it at a gathering. Let’s get mixing!
Ocean Breeze
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka
- 3 oz (90ml) cranberry juice
- 1.5 oz (45ml) grapefruit juice
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Glass: A highball glass works best, giving the drink plenty of space for ice and showing off its vibrant color. A Collins glass is a good alternative.
How to Make an Ocean Breeze
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes to chill the drink properly.
- Pour in the vodka over the ice.
- Add the cranberry juice and grapefruit juice for that perfect balance of sweet and tart.
- Squeeze in some fresh lime juice—it adds just the right amount of citrusy zing.
- Gently stir everything together to blend the flavors.
- Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Ocean Breeze
- Use fresh lime juice—bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
- Chill your glass before making the drink to keep it extra refreshing.
- Go for good-quality vodka—a smooth one will make a noticeable difference.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Want to prep ahead? Mix the juices in a pitcher and store them in the fridge. Just add the vodka and ice when you’re ready to serve so it stays fresh and cold.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Try these fun twists:
- Tropical Breeze: Swap grapefruit juice for pineapple juice for a sweeter, tropical vibe.
- Spicy Breeze: Add a dash of hot sauce or a few slices of jalapeño for a bold kick.
- Sunset Breeze: Use blood orange juice instead of grapefruit for a deeper citrus flavor and a gorgeous color.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Mix cranberry juice, grapefruit juice, and soda water for a refreshing mocktail.
If you don’t have grapefruit juice, orange juice works well too, adding a slightly sweeter touch.
Perfect Pairings
Pair your Ocean Breeze with light, fresh dishes that complement its bright flavors:
- Grilled seafood – The citrus notes in the drink go beautifully with grilled shrimp or fish.
- Crisp salads – A simple vinaigrette ties in with the tartness of the cocktail.
- Fruit skewers – The natural sweetness of fresh fruit enhances the drink’s fruity elements.
I love serving this cocktail with a platter of fresh mango, pineapple, and berries—it’s the perfect match!
Q&A
Can I make an Ocean Breeze in a big batch?
Yes! Just mix the juices and vodka in a pitcher, then pour over ice when serving.
What if I don’t have grapefruit juice?
No worries—swap it with orange or pineapple juice for a slightly different but still delicious twist.
Is this a strong cocktail?
Not really! It’s light and refreshing, making it great for daytime sipping.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You could, but fresh lime juice makes a big difference in flavor.
How do I make my Ocean Breeze look extra fancy?
Try adding a sprig of mint or a twist of citrus peel for a stylish touch and an extra burst of aroma.
This drink has been my go-to for summer nights, and I hope it becomes one of your favorites too. Cheers to simple, refreshing cocktails that bring a little vacation vibe to any moment!
